FISH TAIL PALM
Scientific Name: Caryota spp. (There are several species within the Caryota genus, all sharing similar fishtail-like leaves.)
Common Names: Fishtail Palm, Clustered Fishtail Palm, Burmese Fishtail Palm
Description:
- This specific species within the Caryota genus is another contender for the common name “Fishtail Palm.”
- It shares many similarities with the general description above (Caryota spp.) but with some key differences:
- It’s typically smaller than the Giant Fishtail Palm, reaching heights of 15-20 meters (50-65 feet).
- The leaflets on the “fishtail” fronds may be slightly wider than some other Caryota species.
Uses:
- Toddy Production: The sap of the Caryota urens is used to produce toddy, a fermented beverage consumed in some regions.
- Jaggery Production: The sap can also be boiled down to create jaggery, a type of unrefined sugar.
- Limited Ornamental Use: Similar to other Fishtail Palms, it has some limited ornamental value in warm climates with ample space.